Abruzzo Winter Walking

Two hours drive from Rome in the remote valleys of the Apennine Mountains of the Abruzzo National Park wolves and bear still roam the hills. The bears hibernate over winter but on still nights the wolves can be heard howling and an experienced local guide can find wolf tracks in the snow. There is no danger but excitement can be had knowing you are close to these magnificent creatures.
On this holiday we spend our time snowshoeing through remote valleys, always accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. On one day we will concentrate on the spectacular geology, on another look out for deer and chamois. We will walk to Rifugo Prato Rosso (‘red lawn’). It is from here that we have the best chance of coming across signs of the wolves that live in this remote valley. We can also have a warming lunch in the refuge.
We visit Val Fondillo where we might see the characteristic signs of bear, particularly trees with bark removed where the bears scratch themselves. There is no mistaking the marks when you see them.
Depending on snow cover we may walk rather than snowshoe on occasion. Whatever the snow conditions be prepared for wintry landscapes of remote scenery. The Abruzzo mountains are as wild and remote as any area in Europe. Pescasseroli is a town with all facilities yet we do not have to walk far to get back to nature.
As with all winter activities snow cannot be guaranteed. However the walks are equally spectacular on snow shoes or walking boots.

Destinations visited

Italy

Europe

Tags

Walking

You will have the option to book your own flights independently with the operator.

Why Ramblers Walking Holidays?

With a 70 year history of specialising in guided small group walking holidays, Ramblers Holidays offer over 250 inspiring guided walking and activity holidays in the UK, Europe, and worldwide. The nature of their holidays not only gives you an up close and personal experience of your destination, but travelling in a small group also reduces the environmental impact. Ramblers Holidays has a passion for travel and discovery and they are dedicated to making exploring the world on foot a fantastic and positive experience for everyone; for you as the traveller and the locals whose country, culture and lifestyle you’ve come to enjoy.

From their early pioneering holidays into the wild and mountain landscapes of Europe, they have continued with their passion for travel by creating discovery walking holidays to an increasing range of destinations. Their ethos is about seeing the world on foot, offering everything from lowland ambles to high mountain trekking, from short sightseeing walks to challenging long distance trails, from adventurous activity holidays to strolling between the museums of renaissance Italy.

Travelling in small groups, un-insulated from the world you’re visiting by a coach window, allows you to get a very direct and personal experience of your destination and to discover the essence of the place you are visiting. You’ll get to see not only the big ‘must see’ highlights but also the less discovered places, you’ll get a feel for the history and culture that’s shaped the country as you see it today and you’ll taste the food the way the locals do it. Ramblers most immersive holidays are their Experiential tours which take you beyond the trodden path and allow you to get under the skin of your chosen destination. Seek solace amongst the mountains on a mindfulness, yoga and meditation retreat, learn the art of cooking a perfect tagine in Morocco, watch a stunning sunset as you chase the ‘Big Five’ across Kruger National park or tread amongst tranquil temples of worship in Indonesia.

Ramblers Holidays’ company mission is to generate funds for walking charities. So, unlike most tour operators they are run as a not-for-profit. All of their profits not required for the running of the business are channelled back into charitable causes, both home and away. In the UK, through the Ramblers Holidays Charitable Trust, they support the Ramblers and other smaller outdoors charities. They also offer direct financial support to walking groups through The Walking Partnership. In order to aid their sustainable tourism ethos, they run a staff-managed initiative called Heart and Sole which directly supports communities in the destinations they visit.